A new study led by UCL researchers suggests that smoking may be one of the most important lifestyle factors affecting cognitive decline in older adults. The study analyzed data from 32,000 adults aged 50 or over from 14 European countries over 10 years and found that cognitive decline was faster for smokers compared to non-smokers. However, smokers who engaged in other healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, moderate alcohol consumption, and social activities had a similar rate of cognitive decline as non-smokers. The findings highlight the importance of not smoking in maintaining cognitive function as we age.
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Smoking identified as key factor in accelerated cognitive decline
